Peter Mullins is the Guild’s first centurion

The Guild was delighted to note a remarkable milestone on 10th November, as Peter Mullins became, to the best of our knowledge, the first member to celebrate his 100th birthday.

Guild chair Simon Harris visited retired member Peter at his home the day after his birthday to present him with a commemorative engraved tankard on behalf of the organisation.

The visit became an hour of shared memories, industry history and warmly delivered anecdotes from a career that spanned more than half a century of automotive and engineering journalism.

Peter’s career began in engineering, completing an apprenticeship and achieving an HNC in mechanical engineering before serving in the armed forces from 1944 to 1947. His service took him to Indonesia and British Malaya (now Malaysia and Singapore), experiences that shaped his lifelong interest in international affairs and travel.

After leaving the forces, Peter worked in research and development for major companies including Smiths Industries and Crossley Diesels, travelling extensively throughout the Far East. It was during his time at Smiths that he found himself working alongside a young Graham Hill, who, he recalled with a smile, may not even have learned to drive at that point.

Peter switched to journalism in 1959, becoming technical editor of Fluid Power International before moving into corporate communications as group press officer for Tube Investments. In 1970 he joined Philadelphia-based Chilton Publishing as European editor of Automotive Industries, later freelancing for a range of UK and US magazines. From 1988 he served as features editor with Diesel and Gas Turbine Publications of Milwaukee, USA, continuing until his retirement in 2006.

In more recent times Peter has been supported by Blind Veterans UK, after experiencing macular degeneration.

Reflecting on his visit, Simon said: “It was a privilege to spend time with Peter and hear his first-hand accounts of an industry that has changed beyond recognition. His memory, insight and humour made it a truly special occasion. We are honoured to celebrate his 100 years — and his long association with the Guild.”

The Guild extends its warmest congratulations to Peter and wishes him continued good health and happiness.